Downtown Train x3

Sometimes multiple versions of songs flash through my head almost simultaneously. In this case, three versions of the song "Downtown Train," written and performed originally by Mr. Tom Waits, appeared in my head in reverse-chronological order.



I owned the 1992 Acoustic album from Everything But The Girl, so that's the version of the song I've heard most. If you were a college kid in the 90s (like me!) you probably heard this simply lovely collection of covers at some point.

Another recommend from this album is Tracey & Ben's rendition of Springsteen's Tougher Than The Rest. Both the original and this version are quietly, painfully beautiful. 

Artist: Everything but the Girl
Year: 1992
Rating: Luke Hot



Then Rod Stewart's radio-hit version wormed its way in for a few minutes. The studio rendition is not bad, though his live performances of the song can be cheese-tastic, to be sure. Still, I do have a soft spot for this guy.

Artist: Rod Stewart
Year: 1989
Rating: Warm



Then I was left with the original, and man, that's exactly where I needed to be.

Artist: Tom Waits
Year: 1985
Rating: Hawt!